H.I.G. Capital, the Miami-based alternative investment firm managing $67 billion in equity capital, has kicked off February with two significant transactions that underscore its diverse investment approach across healthcare and manufacturing sectors.
Successful Exit from Soleo Health
The global investment firm announced the successful exit of its portfolio company Soleo Health to funds managed by Court Square Capital and WindRose Health Investors on February 3rd, followed by the announcement of a strategic investment in German machine tool manufacturer HELLER Group on February 4th.
Transformation Under H.I.G.’s Ownership
The sale of Soleo Health marks a successful conclusion to H.I.G.’s ownership of the Frisco, Texas-based specialty pharmacy and infusion services provider. Under H.I.G.’s stewardship, Soleo transformed from a regional player into a national healthcare provider, operating 26 pharmacies and more than 30 ambulatory infusion suites across the United States. The company now maintains pharmacy licenses in all 50 states, delivering specialized care to patients with complex, rare, and ultra-rare medical conditions.
Leadership Perspectives
Drew Walk, President and CEO of Soleo Health, remarked, “H.I.G. has been an exceptional partner to Soleo and instrumental in helping us build the Company into the market leader we are today. H.I.G. supported several significant investments in talent and infrastructure, strengthening our ability to reach more patients and provide exceptional care across our network.” Scott Zhu, Managing Director at H.I.G., highlighted the company’s evolution, noting how Soleo expanded from a regional infusion provider to become a national specialty care leader under their ownership.
Strategic Investment in HELLER Group
On the heels of the Soleo exit, H.I.G. announced its entry into a definitive agreement to invest in the HELLER Group, a deal that showcases the firm’s continued interest in European manufacturing.
HELLER’s Legacy and Growth
Founded in 1894, HELLER has grown from a modest craftsman’s workshop into a global leader in CNC machine tools and manufacturing systems, employing over 2,600 professionals across five production facilities worldwide.
Partnership with the Heller Family
The HELLER investment represents a partnership between H.I.G. and the fourth generation of the Heller family, who will retain significant ownership to preserve the company’s identity as a family business. The deal aims to support a transformation program initiated two years ago by HELLER’s CEO, Dr. Thorsten Schmidt.
Confidence in the Partnership
Nicole Pfleiderer and Marc Heller, representing the fourth generation of the Heller family, expressed confidence in H.I.G. as an ideal partner, citing the firm’s track record and expertise in the engineering sector. Dr. Schmidt emphasized that the partnership would enable HELLER to strengthen its position as a market-leading innovator and expand into new industries.
H.I.G.’s Perspective on the Investment
Christian Kraul-von Renner, Managing Director at H.I.G., praised HELLER’s engineering excellence and 130-year legacy, highlighting the company’s global technological leadership position. The investment, subject to antitrust clearance, will leverage H.I.G.’s manufacturing sector expertise and global network to support HELLER’s growth initiatives.
H.I.G.’s Investment Strategy
These February transactions exemplify H.I.G.’s investment strategy of providing both debt and equity capital to middle-market companies across various sectors and geographies. The firm’s approach combines operational focus with value-added strategies, as demonstrated by its successful exit from Soleo Health and its new partnership with HELLER Group.
Global Reach and Track Record
Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 400 companies worldwide, with its current portfolio including over 100 companies generating combined sales exceeding $53 billion. The firm maintains a global presence with offices across North America, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, enabling it to identify and execute on diverse investment opportunities in multiple markets.
